Northampton v Pompey: Ben Davies insists the table doesn’t lie

Steve Wilson

Ben Davies has pointed to the League Two table as evidence against Northampton’s attempts to shift all of the pressure on to Pompey.

Cobblers boss Chris Wilder used a familiar tactic that has been employed several times this season already by opposition managers as he attempted to paint his side as underdogs – even though they are the team at the top of the League Two table.

The table doesn’t lie. They are top for a reason

Ben Davies

Wilder said: ‘We are playing the best team in the division with the best players and I believe that any team that finishes above Portsmouth come the end of the season will be promoted.’

But with most clubs aparently keen to deflect attention and play the role of plucky challengers when they face Pompey, Davies sees through it.

The Pompey defender said: ‘They are the best team because they are top of the table.

‘We have looked at the team and they have got some fantastic players, especially at this level.

‘Marc Richards is probably one of the best strikers in the league, so we know it will be a tough game.

‘The table doesn’t lie. They are top for a reason.

‘They are absolutely flying at the moment so fair play to them.

‘We know all of the stuff they have been through.

‘The club has been through a few problems and they have done brilliantly to be where they are.’

But the former Sheffield United man believes Pompey are well capable of competing and is keen to close the gap at the top of the League Two standings.

Davies added: ‘It’s an important game because we need to close the gap.

‘They are six points ahead of us and will be looking at it as a chance to put themselves nine points clear of us.’